The prison bell began to toll.
Then, as if by presentiment, the crowd became more orderly, the men ceased their jests, and the vendors their cries.
“It is nearly time for the carrying out the final act of the law upon the poor condemned wretch,” said the tall gentleman to Peace. “What must be his feelings now?”
“Ah, sir! the thought is terrible. It is painful to dwell upon. What, indeed, must be his feelings?”
Here he heaved a profound sigh.
“I have never attended an execution,” remarked the other; “and now my heart begins to fail me. I wish I had kept away. And you——”
“I, like yourself, have never witnessed a scene of this nature, but, having come, I shall endeavour to fortify myself as I best can.”
“I am not an advocate for the abolition of the punishment of death,” remarked Peace’s tall companion. “I frankly own that I do not believe it can with safety be done away with.”
“Most assuredly not,” returned Peace, in the mildest tone of voice. “In the interests of society it is requisite that the guilty should not escape punishment. The murderer is unworthy of sympathy from his fellow-man.”
“I am quite of your opinion—indeed, I may say that you express my sentiments to the very letter.”